One of the most common roadblocks that people run into when applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits is a letter of denial. SSD applications are denied more often than many people realize, and typically for small errors or missed sections. Being denied SSD or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can be discouraging, to say the least. This is why it is recommended that you have a knowledgeable Social Security lawyer by your side to walk you through the process. An estimated 90 percent of people are denied SSD or SSI benefits the first time they apply, which shows how difficult the application process is.
Many people make the mistake of giving up when they are denied SSD benefits. However, that is a big mistake. As we just discussed, an overwhelming majority of applicants are denied with their initial application, but this doesn’t mean there is no hope. Again, the majority of SSD applications that are turned down by the Social Security Administration (SSA) are done so because a preventable error, not because of their specific case. This is why it is imperative that anyone seeking SSD benefits knows what steps to take in the event they have been rejected at first try.
I Was Denied SSD Benefits – Now What?
The very first rule when it comes to a denial of SSD benefits is to always appeal. Unfortunately, many people do not realize that appealing an SSD denial is not only an option but the right thing to do. Many claimants give up on the process, file an appeal after the deadline, or make the mistake of filing a new claim. This is where an Oklahoma SSD lawyer can come in handy. Our lawyers will advise you on the next step and help you figure out what the best path is to ensure your next application is approved.
Your best chance of being awarded SSD benefits after a denial is appealing – hands down. Do not submit a new application, as this will be a waste of valuable time. Claimants who decide that their best option to counter an SSD denial is to start all over will likely discover their second application is denied for the same reasons as their first. By instead appealing a denial with an SSD attorney by your side, you will be on the fast track for approval.
There are several important deadlines associated with SSD applications and the appeal process, which can be overwhelming for many claimants. With this in mind, we encourage you to contact AMA Law and schedule a consultation with one of our SSD attorneys as soon as you receive notice that your application was rejected. We will be able to get started right away and help you with the appeals process, making sure all application errors and missteps are fixed and everything is turned in on time. With this in mind, here are a few steps to keep in mind following an SSD application denial:
- Determine why your case was denied
- Hire a disability lawyer to help you appeal the denial
- Reach out to the Social Security office on your own or through your attorney and start the appeals process
Seems simple enough, right? As long as you are aware of the appeals process deadlines and have hired a disability attorney who understands your case, you should be on the right track to getting your application approved the second time around. To learn more about the SSD appeals process or to speak with one of our Oklahoma disability attorneys, please contact AMA Law today.